Trend Alert: Mad For Plaid

Schoolgirl plaid is back for Fall and Winter 2006, but this time, the classic look has been updated with a sexy twist. Designers are making plaid patterns either very bold or subtle and feminine, with both slim and flirty fits. Take a peek at some new plaid looks.

Available in a deep purple-blue color palette called ink pad, the adorable, feminine LaRok Plaid Silk Charmeuse Matinee Dress comes complete with "peekaboo" fabric, meaning parts of the dress are more sheer than others. For now, you can buy it directly from Bok at (212) 362-5405 for $248, but it will be available online at Bloomingdales.com shortly.

These girly yet sophisticated Delman Red Plaid Quinn Kitten Pumps put a spin on classic tartan plaid with a touch of modern glamour. Made from wool with grosgrain trim, the shoes have a pointed toe with suede fringe and a gold safety pin accent. Buy them here on sale for $147.

Four more great plaid looks, so

The Diane Von Furstenberg Red & Black Lena Jacket is a sexy and sophisticated flannel piece. It has a notched collar, a single button, and a shapely, cut-away waist. Buy it here for $495. The matching Linette Skirt is available here for $255.

For just a touch of tartan, try toting this Juicy Couture Plaid Bowler, which blends countryside coziness with girly urban details, including a wool flower and a tiny silver chain. It's available for $295 here.

This BCBG Crosshatch-Plaid Matte Jersey Dress is a great day-to-night option, with wide, angled sleeves and an adjustable sash. Buy it here on sale now for $117.99

The DKNY Ombre Plaid Pleated Miniskirt is a modern take on the classic schoolgirl skirt, with soft-edged plaid in teal and chocolate brown. It's available here for $345.

The BCBG dress would be cute if it were sleeveless or if the sleeves could chill out a bit and not look like saggy pizza dough. Im not digging the bat-winged look. Go hard or go home. If its a kimono style, go kimono. If its a normal sleeve, its a normal sleeve. I dont like this inbetween thing. Sorry, the dress is pretty otherwise.